Vesna Main is a Croatian novelist and short story writer. She is known for her literary fiction, most notably the novel Good Day? (2019), which was shortlisted for the Goldsmiths Prize. Main's work often explores complex narrative techniques and themes of alienation, influenced by the likes of Kafka and Beckett.
Vesna Main was born in Zagreb, Croatia, where she spent her early years before moving abroad. In addition to a BA in Comparative Literature, she holds an MA in Shakespeare Studies and a PhD in Elizabethan Drama. These degrees laid the foundations for her academic career, where she has taught literature at universities in the UK and Nigeria. "I have spent most of my working life teaching literature at universities in the UK," she once remarked, reflecting on her years in education.
In addition to her academic roles, Main has worked for the BBC and as a university lecturer. Her varied career has been matched by her literary output, which began with contributions to various journals. Her first major publication was a collection of stories, Temptation: A User's Guide (2018). It was followed by Good Day? (2019), a novel written in dialogue, received critical acclaim and was on the shortlist of the Goldsmiths Prize.
Her autofiction Only A Lodger… And Hardly That (2020), published by Seagull Books, delves into themes of identity and belonging. "I have never felt a sense of belonging to any country or nation," she has said, a sentiment that echoes throughout her writing.
In 2021, Main contributed to the novella Bruno and Adèle in Shorts III (Platypus Press). Her latest book, Waiting for a Party, came out in August 2024. The novel tells the story of Claire Meadows, a 92-year-old woman reflecting on the missed opportunities of her life and the mysteries surrounding her husband's death.
Main's work is characterised by her exploration of narrative techniques and her engagement with contemporary issues. She cites multiple influences, including Kafka, Proust and Sebald, which inform her distinctive voice. Beyond literature, Main is passionate about art, particularly the works of Vélasquez, Goya and Manet.
Today, Vesna Main divides her time between England and a small village in Poitou-Charentes, France.
Photo: X @VesnaMain
